Devils coach Pete DeBoer has paid considerable attention to keeping his players physically fresh amidst their difficult schedule. He’s had some optional practices and morning skates where most regulars did not have to go on the ice.

But what about mental fatigue? The Devils haven’t had any days completely off in which players weren’t required to show up at the rink for a team meeting or video session.

“We’re aware of both (mental and physical fatigue). We’re trying to manage that and plan it out as best we can,” DeBoer told The Star-Ledger today. “We’re trying to give them entire days away from the rink, which includes being away from video and teaching as well as the on-ice, because the mental part is as important.

“Unfortunately, with no practice time we’ve had to spend a lot of time on video and teaching. There is no way around that, but it’s something we discuss daily on not trying to overload them.”

The new CBA states that players must be given four days completely off each month—two at home and two on the road. Even a video session or team meeting does not count as a day off.

“Clubs shall endeavor to schedule no less than four (4) ‘days off’ for players per month (two at home and two on the road) during each full calendar month of the NHL regular season schedule,” the CBA reads. “Players shall be notified prior to the start of each month the days that have been designated as ‘days off,’ and the club’s schedule/calendar should not be altered absent compelling circumstances.”

That sounds good, but it is not a reality. Even league officials acknowledge there is some “flexibility” with the rule and coaches have been allowed to schedule practices and meetings at the last minute on days that were set to be days off.

“I’m not going to touch on that one,” David Clarkson said. “The staff makes those decisions as to when they feel you need a break or you don’t need a break.”

Clarkson said fatigue, mental or physical, is not a valid excuse for the Devils’ 2-3-1 record in the last six games.

“I think every team is in the same boat we’re in, so that really can’t come into play. It’s physically demanding but every team is in the same boat,” Clarkson said. “We’ve got to find a way to get back to what makes us successful.”

Barring any late change, the Devils will get a complete day away from the rink tomorrow.

"He's going to get an opportunity to play. We roll four lines for most games, at least early," DeBoer said. "He's got to make the most of his opportunity."

Josefson was sent to the minors when Andrei Loktionov was recalled Feb. 17.

"I wasn't really happy with the way I was playing," Josefson said. "Maybe I had it coming a little bit. Obviously it was a little disappointing but I wasn't satisfied with my game. I know I can play a lot better. I went down and played a lot. I think that was good for my confidence."